One of the best-kept secrets in Mexico City and one of the most exclusive hotspots of its famous nightlife is hidden behind a dozen industrial washing machines. Incredibly but true, this is how our visit to Vanderbilt begins.

When we reach the corner of Lafontaine and Masaryk, the emblematic avenue where many of the most luxurious brands in the world gather together, we seek the mysterious place. No sign of Vandebilt, just a curious laundry, which definitely stands out in this exclusive shopping area.

Carefully we observe the space and notice that something is not right with this laundry, its bright neon sign does not work properly; the only letters that work spell the word VANDER. We are in the right place.

Behind the imposing industrial washing machines, which make the functions of giant iceboxes, there is a small hallway and a pair of sliding doors that open to reveal the bar, a modern and unique speakeasy.

The place name refers to Cornelius Vanderbilt I, an American businessman who made his fortune through the success of his empires on the railway and naval industry. Undoubtedly the decadent space could well be a room in one of his properties like the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, “The Breakers” in Newport Rhode Island, the “Petit Chateau” in Paris or its famous house in Manhattan, New York, which completely occupied the entire block of Northwest 5th Avenue.

Peter Von Putscher and Bernardo Ruiz De Teresa, owners of CASA MOA studio, conducted the design of the site and the creators of the concept are brothers Adolfo and Jeronimo Medina. European style with classic touches contrasted with the highest technology; the décor highlights come in black and gold.

The space may seem small but it has no problem accommodating 200 guests, but only a few will have the opportunity to reserve a table; continuing the atmosphere of exclusivity only 20 tables are available every night.

A repertoire of local and guest DJ’s with an exceptional musical proposal and bartending of the highest level complete the offer at Vanderbilt, a place that will forever mark the party nights in Mexico City.

#Dapper Pick: You must try the Unicorn, Vanderbilt’s signature drink made from soursop, horchata, absinthe and a secret ingredient we can not disclose.